Holmes' patience pays off

Lee Holmes made a goalscoring return to action for Southampton on Saturday and admits he is delighted to be back doing what he does best.

Last Updated: 04/10/11 2:58pm

Holmes: Made a goalscoring return to action against Watford

Lee Holmes made a goalscoring return to action for Southampton on Saturday and admits he is delighted to be back doing what he does best.

The 24-year-old awoke from his injury nightmare at St Mary's over the weekend, as he stepped off the bench to wrap up a 4-0 victory over Watford.

It has been a long road back to full fitness for Holmes, following a serious ankle injury, but he is pleased to see all of his hard work over the last few months paying off on the field.

"It's been a long time coming, but it's nice to come on there and score the goal at the end," he told the Saints' official website.

"I've not had much luck, but I've been patient and I've worked hard, and thankfully that's now been rewarded."

Credit

Holmes damaged three ligaments and tendon during an FA Cup second-round clash last November and his outing against Watford was his first since shaking off the knock.

He may find it difficult to force his way back into Nigel Adkins' starting XI, given that Southampton currently sit top of the Championship, but the former Derby winger has no complaints at having to bide his time.

He added: "It's always nice to come into a side that's doing well, it's a lot easier, and making cameo appearances means that you can just slot in, but all credit to the lads, as it makes it difficult to get in because of how well they're doing. You just have to keep your head down."

The international break will give Holmes another opportunity to work on his fitness and he is hoping to be firing on all cylinders by the time the Saints travel to his former club, Derby, on 15th October.

"Personally, it's great for me I can get another two weeks of fitness under my belt," he said.

"I'll work hard and I can continue to get myself into the position where I feel great and I want to keep improving on that, but for the lads who have played it's a great opportunity for them to get a well-deserved rest."